IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION STUDIES (IJELCS )

E-ISSN 2545-5702
P-ISSN 2695-2157
VOL. 10 NO. 1 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijelcs.vol.10.no1.2025.pg1.9

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Effects of Mother Tongue on Students’ Academic Performance in Taraba State University, Jalingo: An Overview of English Language

Kabir Mohammed Hassan, Bashir Umar Bakari & Bello Mohammed Sajo

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Abstract

This study investigates the affects of mother tongue interference on students' performance in English speaking, writing, and overall academic achievements at Taraba State University. The participants included 20 lecturers and 50 students, representing 30% and 70% of the total sample population, respectively. The primary objective was to explore how the frequent use of the mother tongue affects students' proficiency in English and their academic success in English language courses. The study is grounded in interlanguage theory, which explains how learners' native language influences their second language acquisition. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected through a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire, with responses ranging from "strongly agree" to "strongly disagree." The major findings revealed that 20 lecturers agreed and 50 students strongly agreed that mother tongue interference negatively affects English speaking and writing skills. Similarly, 17 lecturers agreed, and 45 students strongly agreed that it also affects students' academic achievements in English courses. The study concludes that mother tongue interference is a significant barrier to English language proficiency and academic performance. Based on these findings, it is recommended that educational institutions provide professional development for lecturers and offer language support programs for students. Furthermore, policymakers should implement curriculum reforms that balance the use of mother tongue and English to enhance learning outcomes.

keywords:

Mother tongue, English, Academic achievement, Interlanguage, Taraba State

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